What are common obstacles to effective treatment?

Studies find that it takes an average of 14–17 years from the time OCD begins for people to obtain appropriate treatment.

Some people choose to hide their symptoms, often in fear of embarrassment or stigma. Therefore, many people with OCD do not seek the help of a mental health professional until many years after the onset of symptoms.

Until recently, there was less public awareness of OCD, so many people were unaware that their symptoms represented an illness that could be treated.

Lack of proper training by some health professionals often leads to the wrong diagnosis. Some patients with OCD symptoms will see several doctors and spend several years in treatment before receiving a correct diagnosis.